Audio & video software how-tos

  • mp3HD: New lossless MP3 format explained

    27 Mar 2009 3:59 PM

    The lossless "hybrid" MP3 format not only offers the sound detail lost in a normal MP3, but remains compatible with your existing MP3 player or iPod.

  • Mac Starter Kit: Must-have apps

    11 Feb 2009 3:25 PM

    Out of the box, a new Mac is loaded with cool apps to get you started, but it doesn't come with everything you'll need. Check out our round-up of apps that Mac users count on every day and aren't included in the initial set-up.

  • Make MP3s from iTunes downloads: A guide to file conversion

    09 Feb 2009 4:03 PM

    Any MP3 player or audio device can play music bought from the iTunes Store, even if it doesn't support the format Apple sells it in. Here's our three-step guide to show you how to convert iTunes Plus downloads to MP3 format.

  • Windows Starter Kit: Must-have PC apps

    09 Feb 2009 3:18 PM

    Bought a new PC but hate the bloatware it comes with? We've sourced the best free Windows apps to increase your productivity.

  • iTunes Plus: Everything you need to know

    21 Jan 2009 2:20 PM

    How does a DRM-free world affect your iTunes library? CNET fills you in on a few key things you need to know.

  • How to split audio tracks

    08 Sep 2008 4:31 PM

    This tutorial can help you split music and audio books into shorter tracks for your convenient listening pleasure.

  • How to record streaming audio

    05 Sep 2008 1:35 PM

    Many online music sites prefer to stream songs rather than serving them up as downloadable files. Here's a free way to record the audio as MP3s.

  • TuneUp Companion cleans up iTunes

    21 Jul 2008 4:11 PM

    TuneUp Companion is an iTunes plug-in that helps you analyse and clean up a messy library in a fraction of the time it would take to do manually.

  • Learn to rock with GarageBand

    23 Jun 2008 4:24 PM

    Step-by-step instructions on setting up your own home recording studio.

  • How to rip audio from concert DVDs

    17 Jun 2008 11:11 AM

    There are many ways to rip audio from a live concert DVD so you can listen to the songs on your iPod, but here are two that are free and both Mac and PC compatible.

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Reviews

  • Apple iTunes 9

    iTunes 9 is a natural, yet relatively minor, evolution of Apple's popular media management software and is a required download for new iPod owners.

    Where to buy? Check price listings

  • Windows Live Movie Maker

    All in all Windows Live Movie Maker is decent freeware that lives up to its promise of making movies fast. Regardless, Microsoft would do well, at the very least, to build more sharing plug-ins and a fleshier Help menu.

    Where to buy? $129 at 1 store

  • Skype 4.1 beta

    Skype's new screen-sharing feature is a clever addition to the VoIP communications application. The new beta also sees birthday reminders reinstated, a favourite feature of past builds.

    Where to buy? Check price listings